Agencies organize drug take-back

Local agencies are collecting unwanted prescription drugs at multiple locations in the Glendale area on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013.

Local agencies are collecting unwanted prescription drugs at multiple locations in the Glendale area on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013. (Photo illustration by Roger Wilson)

Residents looking to get rid of expired, unused or unwanted medications can do so anonymously Saturday by dropping them off at various pharmacies.

The Crescenta Valley Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition has teamed up with local and federal law enforcement agencies to organize the regional drug drop-off sites, which will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. throughout the area in an effort to curb prescription-drug abuse and theft.

In April, local officials collected more than 950 pounds of prescription and nonprescription drugs during a nationwide drug take-back day.

Officials are also collecting prescription ointments and medicinal drops.

Authorities advise residents to properly safeguard medications to thwart abuse. Residents should never dispose of medications by flushing them down a drain because that could be harmful to the environment, according to officials.